Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

This creamy Tomato Basil Soup is the perfect blend of rich flavors and comforting textures, making it an ideal choice for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner or a sophisticated appetizer for guests, this soup delivers restaurant-quality deliciousness right in your home. Its vibrant taste and hidden veggies ensure that everyone leaves the table satisfied and happy.

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• Main Ingredients
• How to Make Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
• Step 1: Sauté Vegetables
• Step 2: Add Tomatoes and Broth
• Step 3: Blend the Soup
• Step 4: Prepare the Roux
• Step 5: Combine Roux with Soup
• Step 6: Finish with Creaminess
• Step 7: Store Leftovers
• Step 8: Enjoy!
• How to Serve Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
• With Homemade Garlic Bread
• In a Bread Bowl
• Topped with Croutons
• Garnished with Fresh Basil
• Accompanied by Salad
• Pairing with Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
• How to Perfect Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
• Best Side Dishes for Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
• Reheating Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned for Creamy Tomato Basil Soup?
• How can I make Creamy Tomato Basil Soup healthier?
• What is a good serving suggestion for Creamy Tomato Basil Soup?
• How long does Creamy Tomato Basil Soup last in the fridge?
• Can I freeze leftover Creamy Tomato Basil Soup?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With only 40 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up a delicious meal even on the busiest days.
• Flavorful and Rich: The combination of fresh basil, parmesan cheese, and creamy broth creates a depth of flavor that will impress your family and friends.
• Nutritious Comfort Food: Packed with hidden vegetables like carrots, celery, and tomatoes, this soup is both healthy and satisfying.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as an appetizer, main course, or even in a homemade bread bowl for a fun twist.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare in advance and store in the fridge for up to a week—perfect for meal prep!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delightful recipe, make sure you have the right tools ready. Using the correct kitchen equipment will ensure smooth preparation and cooking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot
• Immersion blender or regular blender
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: Essential for sautéing vegetables and simmering the soup evenly.
• Immersion blender: Allows you to blend the soup directly in the pot for easy cleanup.
• Whisk: Important for creating a smooth roux without lumps while cooking.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient portions for balanced flavors.

Ingredients

This creamy Tomato Basil Soup is restaurant-quality DELICIOUS and it’s loaded with hidden vegetables.

Main Ingredients

• 1 Tablespoon olive oil
• 2 14.5 ounce cans diced tomatoes (with the juice)
• 2 carrots (finely diced, about 1 cup)
• 1 small onion (finely diced, about 1 cup)
• 3 ribs celery (finely diced, about 1 cup)
• 2 Tablespoons tomato paste
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 1/2 teaspoons dried basil leaves
• ½ cup butter
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
• 1½ cups half-and-half (or whole milk)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• ¼ cup chopped fresh basil

How to Make Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

Step 1: Sauté Vegetables

Add oil to a large soup pot over medium high heat. Once hot, add carrots, onions, and celery. Sauté them for a few minutes until they begin to soften.

Step 2: Add Tomatoes and Broth

Add diced tomatoes, tomato paste, chicken broth, oregano, and dried basil to the pot. Bring to a gentle boil and cook for several minutes until the vegetables are tender.

Step 3: Blend the Soup

Use an immersion blender or regular blender (you may need to do this in batches depending on your blender size) to puree the soup until smooth. This step is optional if you prefer a chunky texture. Return it to the soup pot.

Step 4: Prepare the Roux

In a separate pot over medium-low heat, add butter. Allow it to melt before stirring in flour. Whisk constantly for about 10 minutes until the roux is golden brown.

Step 5: Combine Roux with Soup

Add a ladle full of soup to the roux; it will form a thick paste. Stir well until smooth. Add more scoops of soup gradually until fully combined.

Step 6: Finish with Creaminess

Stir in parmesan cheese, half-and-half, salt, pepper, and fresh basil. Adjust seasoning with additional oregano or basil if desired. Cook for another few minutes until warmed through.

Step 7: Store Leftovers

Store any leftover creamy Tomato Basil Soup covered in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Step 8: Enjoy!

Try serving your delicious tomato basil soup in a yummy homemade bread bowl for an extra special touch!

How to Serve Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

This creamy Tomato Basil Soup is not only delicious but also versatile, making it perfect for various serving options. Whether you want to impress guests or simply enjoy a comforting bowl at home, here are some delightful ways to serve it.

With Homemade Garlic Bread

• Toast slices of crusty bread with garlic butter for a crunchy side that complements the soup’s creaminess.

In a Bread Bowl

• For a fun presentation, hollow out a round loaf of bread and fill it with the soup. Enjoy the soft bread as you eat!

Topped with Croutons

• Add some store-bought or homemade croutons on top for extra texture and flavor.

Garnished with Fresh Basil

• A sprinkle of chopped fresh basil enhances the soup’s aroma and adds a burst of color.

Accompanied by Salad

• Serve a light salad on the side—like a Caesar or mixed greens—to balance the richness of the soup.

Pairing with Grilled Cheese Sandwiches

• The classic combo of grilled cheese sandwiches makes for a hearty meal alongside your creamy Tomato Basil Soup.

How to Perfect Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

To achieve the best flavor and texture in your creamy Tomato Basil Soup, follow these simple tips. Each step can elevate your cooking experience and outcome.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance the flavor profile significantly compared to canned options.
• Blend for Smoothness: An immersion blender helps create a velvety texture; alternatively, blend in small batches for smooth results.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you go! Add more herbs or spices according to your preference for depth of flavor.
• Incorporate Different Cheeses: While parmesan is delicious, try adding other cheeses like mozzarella or feta for unique twists.
• Experiment with Spices: Don’t be afraid to add spices like paprika or cayenne pepper for an extra kick of flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

Serving creamy Tomato Basil Soup can be even more delightful when paired with complementary side dishes. Here are some great options that will enhance your meal experience.

1. Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic pairing that provides crunch and gooeyness, making every bite satisfying.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in tangy dressing adds freshness that balances the soup’s richness.
3. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft breadsticks brushed with garlic butter offer a delightful dipping option alongside your soup.
4. Caprese Salad: Layered fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil topped with balsamic drizzle make for a refreshing contrast.
5. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal roasted veggies brings in earthy flavors that pair beautifully with tomato soup.
6. Pasta Salad: A chilled pasta salad can add texture and variety, creating a well-rounded meal experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Tomato Basil Soup, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the roux: The roux is essential for achieving the creamy texture of the soup. Take time to prepare it properly for a silky finish.
• Not sautéing vegetables: Sautéing your carrots, onions, and celery brings out their flavors. Don’t skip this step; it adds depth to your soup.
• Using fresh tomatoes without cooking them: Fresh tomatoes need time to break down and blend into the soup. Always cook them well with the other ingredients.
• Overcooking the basil: Basil can lose its flavor if cooked too long. Add fresh basil towards the end of cooking for maximum taste.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Always taste your soup before serving. You may need extra salt or pepper to balance the flavors.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to one week.
• Make sure the soup is cooled before sealing the container.

Freezing Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to three months.
• Leave space at the top of the container as the soup will expand when frozen.

Reheating Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and place soup in an oven-safe dish, covering it with foil. Heat for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place soup in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring between each interval.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Creamy Tomato Basil Soup that may help you perfect your recipe.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned for Creamy Tomato Basil Soup?

Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes. Just ensure they are ripe and cook them down well with the other ingredients.

How can I make Creamy Tomato Basil Soup healthier?

To make it healthier, you can reduce the amount of butter and cheese or substitute with low-fat alternatives like Greek yogurt.

What is a good serving suggestion for Creamy Tomato Basil Soup?

It pairs wonderfully with grilled cheese sandwiches or served in homemade bread bowls for a delightful meal.

How long does Creamy Tomato Basil Soup last in the fridge?

This soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Can I freeze leftover Creamy Tomato Basil Soup?

Yes, you can freeze it for up to three months. Just make sure it’s cooled before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding different spices or vegetables according to your preference. It’s perfect as a comforting meal on chilly days or as an elegant starter for gatherings. Give this recipe a try!